MANUFACTURING/MACHINING TECHNOLOGY

Machining Technology is the heart of manufacturing things. Machinists, Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) Machine Tool Operators and Programmers, and Manufacturing Production Technicians set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments. Dual enrollment opportunities are available through Tennessee College of Applied Technology.

MACHINING I (Formerly Machining Core; ACCTC) – Single Block; One Semester; One Credit; 9 th -10th Grades; Prerequisites and/or Requirements: None. This course focuses on the essential principles that must be mastered for a person to be effective in manufacturing production work. The course is intended for students more interested in production than engineering. The course covers customers, quality principles and processes, systems, information in the workplace, the business of manufacturing, and statistical process control. This course is contextual by design. It connects what is being learned to the learner’s current experience, past knowledge, and future conduct. Dual enrollment opportunity offered for Freshmen through Seniors with TCAT.

MACHINING II (Formerly Machining I; ACCTC) - Double Block; One Semester; Two Credits; Designed for 10th - 11 th Grades; Prerequisites and/or Requirements: Machining I (Machining Core). This course focuses on the concepts and practices that support careers in manufacturing, industrial maintenance, metrology, automation, industrial design, and industrial support. The course introduces the technology of machining and manufacturing processes. While working as team members, students will apply leadership and organizational skills relating to designing, producing, and maintaining a product. Emphasis is placed on quality control, codes and standards, and production systems. The course is contextual by design. The course connects what is being learned to the learner’s current experience, past knowledge, and future conduct. Laboratory exercises provide active and cooperative learning opportunities. Dual enrollment opportunity offered for Freshmen through Seniors with TCAT.

MACHINING III (Formerly Machining II; ACCTC) - Double Block; One Semester; Two Credits; Designed for 11th -12th Grades; Prerequisites: Machining I and Machining II (Formerly Machining Core and Machining I). This course is for students interested in entering the workforce or pursuing higher education in the manufacturing area. The course requires students to solve problems in a real-world manufacturing context. Problems address critical areas identified by industry and supported by relevant national standards. This course is structured as a series of simulation units. The simulations require students to identify problems in a manufacturing company based on data supplied in typical management reports. Students work in teams of four to six. Teams test and refine proposed solutions with computer simulations. All teams work on the same problem concurrently. At the end of each unit, students present team findings and recommendations to the class and to a panel of manufacturing industry representatives, which acts as the board of directors. Snap On Precision Tool Certification offered through course completion. Dual enrollment opportunity offered for Freshmen through Seniors with TCAT.

MECHATRONICS I (ACCTC) - Dual Enrollment Course. Single Block; One Semester; One Credit; 11th Grade; Prerequisites: Machining I and Machining II (Formerly Machining Core and Machining I). Mechatronics I is an applied course in the manufacturing cluster for students interested in learning more about careers as a mechatronics technician, maintenance technician, electromechanical technician, and manufacturing engineer. This first of two courses covers basic electrical and mechanical components of mechatronics systems as well as their combined uses with instrument controls and embedded software designs. Upon completion of this course, proficient students are able to describe and explain basic functions of physical properties and electrical components within a mechatronic system. They can logically trace the flow of energy through a mechatronic system and can communicate this process to others. They know how to effectively use technical documentation such as data sheets, schematics, timing diagrams, and system specifications to troubleshoot basic problems with equipment. Finally, they develop strategies to identify, localize, and correct malfunctioning components and equipment. 

MECHATRONICS II (ACCTC) - Dual Enrollment Course. Single Block; One Semester; One Credit; 12th Grade; Prerequisites: Mechatronics I. Mechatronics II is an advanced course in the manufacturing career cluster for students interested in learning more about careers as a mechatronics technician, maintenance technician, or electromechanical technician. Following the groundwork of mechanics and electronics laid in Mechatronics I, this course covers the basics of pneumatic, electro pneumatic, and hydraulic control circuits in a complex mechatronic system. In addition, the course addresses basic digital logic and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) employed in the mechanical, electronic, and control systems in a mechatronics system. Upon completion of this course, proficient students can explain the inter-relationships of components and modules within a complex mechatronic system. They understand the differences between hydraulic and pneumatic fluid power and can explain the scientific principles that apply. They also use technical documentation (such as datasheets, circuit diagrams, displacement step diagrams, timing diagrams, and function charts) to troubleshoot and resolve malfunctioning pneumatic and hydraulic components and circuits. They demonstrate understanding of the role of programmable logic controllers (PLC) in mechatronic systems and the ability to write, debug, and run basic ladder logic. WORK BASED LEARNING: Students who have completed 2-4 credits in Machining may be eligible to earn course credit and gain real world work experience through WBL. See page 62 for more information.